This is a photo of the "lantern procession" held on the day of the Itsukushima Shrine Kangen-sai Festival on July 22. On the day of the Kangen-sai Festival, we welcomed the barges returning from the opposite shore at Nagahama Shrine with lantern lights, and then walked to Itsukushima Shrine with the lanterns lit. The night breeze was pleasant.

The Gion Festival is also known as the "Moving Art Museum". The Yamaboko that suddenly appears in the usual scenery Blend in with the cityscape of Kyoto Impression every year by the beauty of the decorations.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video! This is the Takaharu Town Tourism Association. Takaharu, Nishimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture, lies at the foot of MtTakachihonomine in the southwest of Kyushu. It is a town surrounded by beautiful nature. The town’s population is about 8,000 people (as of June 2024), and it is known for scenery that changes with the seasons. Takaharu in Miyazaki Prefecture charms visitors with its rich natural environment and historical background, offering heartwarming experiences. The name Takaharu is said to come from Takamagahara, the high plain where the gods dwell in Japanese mythology. Here is some recommended information about Takaharu, a town closely linked to Japanese mythology. ■■■Access to Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture ■Miyazaki Airport - Access to Takaharu You can reach Takaharu from Miyazaki Airport by the following means. By car: It takes about 45 minutes from Miyazaki Airport to Takaharu via the Miyazaki Expressway. By train: From Miyazaki Airport, transfer between the JR Miyazaki Airport Line, the JR Nippo Main Line, and the JR Kitto Line to reach takaharu station in about two hours. ■■■History, Legends, and Myths of Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture Takaharu has long been a region where myths and legends live on, and many stories have been passed down here. It is said to be the birthplace and childhood home of Emperor Jimmu, and many local place names around Takaharu relate to him. The Tenson Korin, the heavenly descent in Japanese myth, is said to have taken place at MtTakachihonomine in Takaharu. Legends about the birth of the land by Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto and the Ama-no-Sakahoko stuck into the summit of MtTakachihonomine at the time of descent remain. ■■■Popular Sightseeing Spots in Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture ■Sayano Shrine Sayano Shrine is one of Takaharu’s representative shrines and is said to have been established on the site where Emperor Jimmu was born as recorded in the Kojiki and the Nihon Shoki. A grand avenue lined with cedar trees, said to be the longest shrine approach in Japan, covers the precincts, and its tranquil atmosphere moves visitors deeply. ■Kirishima Higashi Shrine Kirishima Higashi Shrine sits on the eastern foot of MtKirishimayama and is known as one of the Kirishima Rokusha Gongen. Kirishima Jingu in Kagoshima Prefecture prospered as “West Kirishima Shrine,” while Kirishima Higashi Shrine was known as “East Kirishima Shrine.” From the shrine you can enjoy grand views of MtKirishimayama, and the autumn colors particularly attract many visitors. ■Kasumi Shrine Kasumi Shrine is said to grant blessings for agriculture, livestock, health, matchmaking, good fortune, and business success. Legend says that worshiping the white snake that lives in a rock cave on the shrine grounds brings good luck. ■Oujibaru Park Oujibaru Park is a vast park representing Takaharu and a natural treasure to enjoy year-round. You can enjoy wood-themed play areas such as Oujibaru no Ki, where children play with wooden toys, and the roofed play equipment Moo-rii that lets you feel the warmth of wood. ■Okukirishima Oujibaru Park Campground Okukirishima Oujibaru Park Campground is an outdoor spot developed around Koushiobaru Shrine where visitors can enjoy camping in nature. Around the campground you can find burial mounds, walking trails, tennis courts, a fishing pond, and go-karts, making it enjoyable for both children and adults. The site offers facilities that make it easy for camping beginners to use, so anyone can enjoy an outdoor experience with confidence. ■Okukirishima Onsen-kyo Takaharu is also a rich hot-spring area spreading across the Kirishima range, and the town has four hot-spring facilities. This hot-spring village breathes history and tradition, with abundant springs offering various benefits. The spring types include sulfur springs, bicarbonate springs, and iron springs, which are said to improve skin and relieve fatigue. Facilities where you can enjoy high-concentration carbonated springs are also popular. From open-air baths and private baths you can enjoy beautiful seasonal natural scenery. Local cuisine made with regional ingredients is another major attraction. ■Totoro Statue A statue of Totoro, a character from the animated film My Neighbor Totoro, stands in a rural setting in Takaharu. Surrounded by lush natural scenery, the statue makes visitors feel as if they are inside the film. It is a popular photo spot and a memorable place for visitors. ■■■■Local Specialties of Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture ■Miyazaki Beef Takaharu is a region with thriving livestock farming, and Miyazaki Beef, representative of the town, is a highly regarded premium wagyu both in Japan and abroad, known for its quality. Its fine marbling and tender texture fill your mouth with rich flavor from the first bite. ■Aged Takaharu Ash-Dried Meat This is meat ash-dried using ash from eruptions of MtShinmoedake. Volcanic ash absorbs excess moisture and odors, enhancing umami and tenderizing the ingredient. These specialties are also popular return gifts for hometown tax donations. ■■■Tourist Information for Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture Takaharu offers abundant nature and a compelling historical backdrop. Visit Takaharu to encounter Japanese myths and legends. Cool Japan Video will continue to share recommended information about Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture, so please follow us.

On the morning of the Gion Festival procession, The figure of the Yamaboko quietly waiting for its turn There and a little tension in the silence, It gave off an indescribable aura.

Summer in Okinawa "Eisa" / Speaking of summer in Okinawa, it is "Acer". On July 7th, I went to the Okinawaya Eisa Festival held on Kokusai Street. Eisa is a dance to send the spirits of ancestors to the other world on the Kyu-Bon, and it is an event in which people parade around the village while beating large drums and drums and dancing with their hands on the song sanshin. We also pray for the safety of each family and the safety of their families. The performance of jumping in the second half of the performance was a masterpiece! After this, we will make many jumps. In the heat, this performance is amazing! It is the biggest attraction of the Sakaeguchi Youth Association. At this time, it started to rain, but the performance was completed safely until the end.

Summer in Okinawa "Eisa" / Speaking of summer in Okinawa, it is "Acer". On July 7th, I went to the Okinawaya Eisa Festival held on Kokusai Street. Eisa is a dance to send the spirits of ancestors to the other world on the Kyu-Bon, and it is an event in which people parade around the village while beating large drums and drums and dancing with their hands on the song sanshin. We also pray for the safety of each family and the safety of their families. The boy in the lead was dancing on the side of the road last year, but this year he took the lead and pulled me along. It has become reliable. ^^ I hope that this child will grow up and carry on the traditions of Okinawa. The sound of the Drums heard nearby is powerful and really touches my heart.

Summer in Okinawa "Eisa" / Speaking of summer in Okinawa, it is "Acer". On July 7th, I went to the Okinawaya Eisa Festival held on Kokusai Street. Eisa is a dance to send the spirits of ancestors to the other world on the Kyu-Bon, and it is an event in which people parade around the village while beating large drums and drums and dancing with their hands on the song sanshin. We also pray for the safety of each family and the safety of their families. At the Eisa Festival, youth associations in each region perform dances, so it's great to see various types of performances! It is actively held in various places from July ~ August. It was very hot on this day, but when I heard the sound of Eisa's big Drum and tightening Drum, I wanted to sing with Acer Acer♬ and my blood started to rush ^^ I forgot about the heat!

When the Gion Festival begins, Kyoto's Ume plum rain dawns and summer begins. The photo was taken by my wife in front of me. I aimed at the smartphone screen from behind and took a picture.

One of the Specialties of the Gion Festival. Dance of the umbrella halberd. The atmospheric appearance of a boy heading to the dance I only took a picture of the silhouette.

A bowl towering majestically at the venue of the Gion Festival. I've been seen by various people for a long time. A lot of drama is born When I think that it is filled with the thoughts of many people I felt very emotional.

Inside the venue of the Gion Festival The smoke from the stalls is illuminated by the lights, It creates a live feeling as if Yamaboko is standing on the stage It turned out to be a fantastic view.

On Saturday and Sunday, July 27th and 28th, the summer festival of Wakaichioji Shrine, one of the nation's Important Cultural Properties, will take place. The children's yabusame (mounted archery), a rare sight nationwide, will move hearts with its charming display of courage. A procession of children and the coordinated stage parade pulling will also be held. Please come and enjoy this historic festival.

July 15 (Mon) Gion Shrine Summer Festival⛩️✨ On Monday, July 15, the Gion Shrine in the Kuraoka area held its summer annual festival, affectionately known as “Gion-san.”🎉 The day opened with the Morimaki ritual, followed by a ceremony, kagura performances, the sacred procession, and dance presentations—there was so much to enjoy.😊🎶 Although the weather brought rain at first, true to the spirit of “Gion-san,” a break in the clouds appeared by the time the sacred procession ended.☀️ Despite the rain, people from the neighborhood, across the prefecture and beyond, and even from overseas, came out early in the morning to enjoy the festival.🌍✨ It’s wonderful to see a community festival cherished by locals becoming known to and enjoyed by so many people.😌👏 We hope this tradition will continue to be passed on carefully into the future.

Held again this year! Sunday, August 11 (National Holiday) “Noh Village Ikeda Hazuki Takigoi” Enjoy a rich program that brings together local folk performing arts and Noh and Kyogen performed by a Living National Treasure✨ See them all at once for a memorable experience 😊 Please visit Ikeda Town this summer! Program - Dengaku from Suikai’s dance repertoire Dengaku “Karasu Tobi” and Noh dance “Kureha” - Iwami Kagura from Kado Kagura Troupe “Jinrin” and “Orochi” - O-kura School Kyogen “Kaminari (Thunder)” Performers: Shigeyama Shichigosume, Shigeyama Munenobu, and others - Kongo School Noh “Tamura Nagashogi” Performers: Kongo Eikin, Kongo Ryukin, and others Advance ticket outlets - Pia Tickets web [P code: 527-559] - Ikeda Town (Kotte Kote Ikeda, etc.) - Fukui City (Pario, Bell) - Sakai City (Al Plaza Ami, Heartpia Harue) - Ono City (Vio) - Sabae City (Al Plaza Sabae) - Echizen City (Takefu Rakuichi, Shipi, Imadate Art Museum)

A castle in the sky that suddenly appears This is a place called 😆 Gujo Hachiman Castle in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture Famous for the collaboration between the sea of clouds and the castle, many people come 🚶 to see it early in the morning Take a look at the sea of clouds, which is not often in front of you 😆

🐋 Prayer for the opening of the sea and the safety of the sea The long-awaited summer has arrived ✨ At two beaches in Mikuni Town, Fukui Prefecture, a sea opening ceremony was held 🌅 to pray for safety Use also conducts water rescue drills to protect the safety of all users, and the Bathing in the sea season is in full swing! 🏖 Mikuni Mr./Ms. Set Beach ・ The shallow and wide beach is Popular with Families! ・ Marine sports are popular 🏄 ・ Held in Mikuni Fireworks Festival on 8/11 Sun! ⁡ Famous as a Spot to watch the sunset. 🏖 Hamachi Beaches ・ It features beautiful sandy beaches and highly transparent seawater! You may be able to observe the fish. ・ In the vicinity, there are plenty of leisure facilities such as Echizen Matsushima Aquarium and Shibamasa World This year is expected 😖 to be hotter than last year You can come to cool off or play to your heart's content! Be sure 🍽️ to stop by the surrounding Sightseeing spots This summer, I'm coming to visit the sea of Mikuni~ ☺️ ࿐·˖✶࿐·˖✶࿐·˖✶࿐·˖✶࿐·˖✶࿐·˖✶࿐·˖✶ In the middle 💘 of the charm of Fukui Prefecture Check out our past posts!

Hiraide Ruins The nationally designated Hiraide Ruins rank among Japan’s three major archaeological sites. Situated about 2 kilometers southwest of JR Chuo Main Line Shiojiri Station, they lie on Kikyogahara, a vast stretch of vineyards. The site extends in a band along the Shibukawa, which flows from Hirade Spring, spanning about one kilometer east to west and 300 meters north to south. Major excavations that began in 1950 revealed that people lived at Hiraide from the Jomon period through the Heian period. Numerous dwelling remains and associated artifacts were unearthed. These abundant finds became fundamental sources for studying prehistoric and ancient cultures in the region, and the site received National Historic Site status in 1952. Excavations have continued since then, and to date more than 290 dwelling and building remains have been discovered. ◇Hiraide Museum The museum displays clay figures, pottery, stone tools, ironware and other items excavated from the Hiraide Ruins, along with artifacts from other sites in the city. Highlights include the prefectural treasures such as the green-glazed water jar, the Shibamiya Bronze Bell, the Shobuzawa Gatou, and distinctive Jomon pottery of Shinshu. ◇Historic Park Around the museum is the Hirade Kofun Group, three burial mounds believed to belong to powerful local leaders who governed the Hiraide settlement. You can also see a pit-dwelling reconstructed for the first time nationwide as an ancient structure. ◇Hiraide Ruins Park Hiraide Ruins Park reconstructs villages from the Jomon, Kofun and Heian periods under the theme "Five thousand years of Hiraide." The park features 15 reconstructed dwellings and buildings that visitors can enter. Each dwelling recreates life in the Jomon, Yayoi and Heian periods, allowing visitors to experience firsthand changes in house structure and materials and to feel how people’s lives transformed across the ages. ◇Guidance Building The Guidance Building offers a guidance corner, rest area and an observation room, creating a relaxed space where visitors can learn about the Hiraide Ruins. Hands-on activities related to prehistory and ancient times, such as fire starting and making magatama (curved beads), are held here and are popular with local children. On the second floor, an observation room provides a panoramic view of the ruins park. ◇Basic Information <Historic Park / Hiraide Museum> Address: 1011-3 Soga, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture Phone: 0263-52-1022 Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30) Closed: Mondays, the day after public holidays, and during the New Year holidays (December 29–January 3) Parking: Cars: 50 spaces / Large buses: 10 spaces (free) Admission (※): General: 300 yen / Elementary and junior high school students: free / Groups of 20 or more: 240 yen per person ※From April 1, 2026: General: 400 yen / Elementary and junior high school students: free / Groups of 20 or more: 320 yen per person Access: 15-minute walk from JR Shiojiri Station / Immediately at Community Development Bus Soga Line Hirade Museum bus stop <Ruins Park / Guidance Building> Address: 388-2 Soga, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture Phone: 0263-52-3301 Hours: 9:00–17:00 Closed: Mondays, the day after public holidays, and during the New Year holidays (December 29–January 3) Parking: Available (free) Reception hours: 9:00–11:00 and 13:00–15:30 Admission: Free (materials fees may apply for certain experiences) Access: 15-minute walk from JR Shiojiri Station or 6 minutes from Community Development Bus Soga Line Hirade Tsumesho-mae Bus Stop

Although the rainy season makes the outdoors dark, the hydrangeas stand out brilliantly! This is Jokoji Temple in Kaminishijo, Shiojiri City, also famous as the rhododendron temple.

On June 30, the halfway point of the year, a Kaya no Rinokuguri Shinto ritual was held at the Shirahama Town Shrine to purify the defilements of the past six months and pray for a disease-free life in the second half.

It is the Tanabata Festival of Hofu Tenmangu Shrine in Yamaguchi Prefecture. The entire Tenmangu area is vividly decorated with strips of paper and wreaths, and at night, the "Hikari no Sai Garden" is set up to light up the umbrella artwork, and the corridor is enveloped in a fantastic atmosphere.

Summer 🇯🇵 in Japan

Hello! This is the Fukui Prefecture Tourism Federation. Fukui Prefecture has become one of the most talked-about regions now that the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension has made access from Tokyo much easier. We will share information about Fukui’s sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and more. Please look forward to it! ◆About Fukui Prefecture Fukui Prefecture faces the Sea of Japan in the Chubu region. On March 16, 2024, the Hokuriku Shinkansen was extended between Kanazawa and Tsuruga, reducing the fastest travel time from Tokyo to 2 hours and 51 minutes. About 80 percent of Japan’s dinosaur fossils have been excavated in Fukui Prefecture, earning it the nickname “Dinosaur Kingdom” and making it home to many dinosaur-related facilities. Facing the Sea of Japan, Fukui is one of Japan’s premier fishing grounds, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Especially Echizen crab, Wakasa fugu (pufferfish), and Echizen Flounder are high-quality specialties you can only taste here. Fukui is also one of the world’s leading eyewear production centers, manufacturing 95 percent of Japan’s frames. ◆Popular sightseeing spots in Fukui Prefecture Fukui is broadly divided into four areas: ◇Awara, Sakai, and Fukui City area ◇Eiheiji and Okuetsu area ◇Wakasaji area ◇Tannan area Below are recommended spots in each area. ◇Awara, Sakai, and Fukui City area ・Tojinbo Tojinbo, a cliff-lined coastline stretching about one kilometer, is often used for dramatic climaxes in suspense dramas. It is recognized as one of the world’s three great scenic wonders, a National Natural Monument, one of Japan’s 100 geological sites, and one of Japan’s 100 best sunsets. In recent years it has become popular as a spot to see the “green flash,” when the sun briefly glows green as it sets into the Sea of Japan. ・Fukui Castle Ruins The castle ruins were built in 1606 by Hideyasu Yuki, the second son of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Stone walls remain, and the site is a popular cherry-blossom viewing spot. ◇Eiheiji and Okuetsu area ・Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum One of the world’s three great dinosaur museums, it displays about 50 dinosaur skeletons along with fossils, specimens, dioramas, and reconstructed models. It is a spot that delights both children and adults. ・Daihonzan Eiheiji A Zen training monastery founded by Zen Master Dogen, it still hosts many practicing monks. ◇Wakasaji area ・Mizushima A small uninhabited island off the tip of the Tsuruga Peninsula, Mizushima is reachable by a daily ferry that operates during the swimming season. Its beauty has earned it the nickname “Hawaii of the Hokuriku region.” ・Mikata Five Lakes The five lakes—Lake Mikata, Lake Suigetsu, Lake Suga, Lake Kugushi, and Lake Hiruga—span Mihama Town and Wakasacho in Fukui Prefecture. They are also called the “five colored lakes” because each has a different shade of blue. ◇Tannan area ・Murasaki Shikibu Park Named for the Heian-period author Murasaki Shikibu, who spent time in Takefu City, the park features a gilded statue of Murasaki Shikibu wearing a twelve-layered kimono. ・Kazurabashi (Vine Bridge) A rare vine suspension bridge measuring 44 meters long. A legend says couples who vow their love on the bridge will find eternal happiness. ◆For touring Fukui Prefecture, we recommend the Happibus To visit popular spots in Fukui Prefecture, we recommend Happibus. Happibus offers scheduled sightseeing bus tours that take you comfortably and safely to attractive attractions scattered across the prefecture. Choose from seasonal specialty routes or courses that let you compare Fukui’s delicacies. Tours operate for solo travelers, and admission fees are included in the price. A guide accompanies the tour so you can fully enjoy your trip in Fukui. For details, please visit the Happibus website. ◆Fukui’s representative festivals ◇Mikuni Festival Held every May, this historic festival dates back to the Edo period. As one of the three major festivals of the Hokuriku region, its procession of float-mounted warrior dolls standing 6.5 meters tall parades through town in a powerful display. ◇Toro Nagashi and Grand Fireworks Festival Held every August in Tsuruga City, this festival fills the sea with colorful floating lanterns against the backdrop of Kehi no Matsubara, while about 8,000 fireworks light up the night sky above the ocean. ◇Tsuruga Festival, Kehi Jingu Shrine Annual Festival Held every September in Tsuruga City, this festival is famous as the “Long Festival of Kehi” because it spans 14 days. ◆Sharing recommended information about Fukui Prefecture We introduced Fukui Prefecture’s seasonal natural beauty, historic sites, delicious food, and traditional culture. Fukui has ranked first overall five times in a row in the “Happiness Ranking of All 47 Prefectures.” We will continue to introduce Fukui’s highlights on Cool Japan Video. Thank you for your support!

[Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Mountaineering and Trekking] Karasudake Karasudake sits at the northern tip of the Kuwanouchi district The summit offers a full 360-degree view where you can take in sweeping scenery Each May, the azalea festival is held

Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Hiking and Trekking: Kabakidake Rising at the heart of the Kuwanouchi district, the mountain is known locally as Shiroyama, or Castle Mountain, because an ancient mountain fortress called Kabakidake Castle once stood there. It is cherished by the local community. With Mt. Masugata to the east as its backdrop, the mountain offers wide views to the west, south and north. Its shape—easy to defend but hard to attack—has made it famous as the representative mountain of Kuwanouchi.

[Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Mountaineering and Trekking] Mt. Masugata Mt. Masugata in the Kuwanochi area The summit offers a full 360-degree panorama, with views of the Aso mountain range, Kuju mountain range, Mt. Sobo, Mt. Unzen Fugen, and the gorge of the Gokase River all visible at a glance. You can also see a sky full of stars at night, but be aware that the trail to the summit is rugged and there are no streetlights.

[Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Mountaineering and Trekking] Gionyama This mountain is said to be the birthplace of Kyushu, first emerging from the sea as the current Kyushu rose from tectonic movement, and fossils dating back 430 million years have been excavated here. During the mountain opening season, you can enjoy flowers such as the fully blooming akebono azaleas. Some sections require using ropes to advance.

Traditional Performing Arts of Gokasecho, Miyazaki Prefecture — Usu-daiko Dance The Usu-daiko dance performed at the autumn grand festival of Gion Shrine was once offered on the lunar calendar date of September 9, so it is also called the "kunchi dance," and it has been passed down for more than 400 years. It is said to have begun when members of the defeated Taira clan, driven from Kyoto and wandering in exile, reached the mountain hamlet of Shiiba on their way to safety and, while remembering the glittering capital, danced in the village of Kuraoka. The dance shows a poised, dignified movement within its grace, evoking the hearts of people from the capital, and it is offered each year at Gion Shrine’s autumn festival. <Legendary Events>-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In the first year of Bunji (1185), near the end of the Genpei conflicts, remnants of the Taira clan who were defeated at the Battle of Dan-no-ura fled into the interior to evade the Genji pursuit. They reached the village of Kuraoka and, on their way to Mt. Shiiba, left the weak, women, and children in the mountains near Kuraoka Hakki because of the steep, treacherous roads. In Genkyu 2, the Kamakura shogunate did not ease its pursuit of the Taira remnants and ordered Nasu Daihachiro Munenaga to hunt down the clan that had fled into the Kyushu Mountains. Receiving the order, Nasu Daihachiro's party entered Kuraoka intending to head for Shiiba, and finding the Taira fugitives in Kuraoka lacking the will to fight, they staged a dance of shared company to comfort them after the long journey, setting aside the victors' arrogance to show compassion for the defeated. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The dance described above became the foundation of the Kuraoka Usu-daiko dance, which, after cycles of prosperity and decline and several relocations over the ages, is said to have survived in its present form. Dancing to the beat of drums and bells, performers display dignified movements within an overall elegance. In recent years, the Gion Shrine Usu-daiko Dance Preservation Society, with the cooperation of children from Gokase Nature School and local parishioners, has carried on the dance. Schedule for the Usu-daiko dance: every year on October 9.

Traditional Performing Arts of Gokasecho, Miyazaki Prefecture: Kuraoka Staff Technique The Kuraoka staff tradition follows the Ōkuruma school, said to be a martial art founded by Marume Kurando (one of the four greats of the Shinkage tradition) from the Higo Sagara domain. Also called Shinkage Ōkuruma Musō-ryū, documents show the earliest mention of Kuraoka in the early Edo period. After that, the art passed through Mamimahara and Omae in Shiiba Village before returning to practitioners in Kuraoka at the local end of the line. Kuraoka staff techniques use two kinds of staff: the long staff, 6 shaku 2 sun (about 188 cm), and the short staff, 3 shaku (about 91 cm). The forms are basically defensive. There are over thirty paired forms, including long staff versus short staff and staff versus sword. Forms that employ the sword are commonly called shiraha (white-blade). The Kuraoka Staff Preservation Society offers a shiraha dedication at the summer grand festival of Gion Shrine and provides instruction to students at Kuraoka Junior High School.

Traditional Performing Arts of Gokasecho, Miyazaki Prefecture: Murono Yoi Kagura The Murono Yoi Kagura at Mikasho Shrine is said to have been handed down during the Meiji era from the Iwato Kagura lineage, specifically the Kuwanouchi Shrine Kagura and the Furudono Shrine Kagura. The sake-straining dance has become a merry performance portraying a farming couple. In the mid-Meiji period, Minosuke Kai, the first head of the Murono district, brought kagura from Furudono to the Konpira-yama festival, central to the Murono and Akatani districts, and passed it down to the present day. The tradition once died out, but it was reformed when kagura was requested for the Tsuhana Tunnel breakthrough ceremony in 1972 (Showa 47). Murono Yoi Kagura schedule: the second Saturday in December

[Miyazaki Prefecture Gokasecho Traditional Performing Arts] Kuraoka Gion Kagura Kuraoka Gion Kagura is a kagura preserved at Kuraoka’s Gion Shrine. Its origins are said to trace back to dances performed in the broad courtyard of the ancient Kogamure Shrine recorded in the Engishiki. In Genryaku 2 / Juei 4 (1185), after the Heike clan’s defeat at the Battle of Dan-no-ura, members of the Heike fled through the Kyushu mountains and reached Kuraoka, then pressed further into the remote mountains toward Shiiba. At that time, court entertainments and sacred music from Kyoto—gigaku, gagaku—and Ise-style kagura that the Heike brought with them blended into the existing local kagura, and over time this fusion developed into a distinctive form. The kagura’s sound is said to have been shaped by a drum made from the trunk of a walnut tree grown in the hidden recesses of Mt. Shiraiwa, stretched with deerhide taken from the remote mountains and bound at both ends with hemp twine; a flute made from bamboo with holes bored in it; and graceful, capital-style rhythms and hand clapping. These elements combined into the unique musical pulse of the Kuraoka kagura. In July 2023, the Kuraoka Gion Kagura Preservation Society revived this ancient kagura drum. Kuraoka Gion Kagura schedule: mid-July (Gion Shrine), early October (Gion Shrine), mid-November (Amanatsu Shrine)